As a parent during the summer we all worry about our children staying cool during these upcoming hot and humid days. For parents whose children wear leg braces (or orthotics) with high socks and closed toe shoes, summer always results in a struggle to keep them cool and still utilize their braces. The solution to this issue lies in what type of orthotics they wear.

If it’s just shoe inserts that go into the bottom of the shoe then you can utilize whatever shoe that they will fit into. If it’s a sandal with a closed heel then they should work with minimal issues. However if the sandal has an open heel, then these are not a good candidate for insert use.

If your child wears larger braces (DAFOs or MAFOs) that come up over the ankles or higher, it is essential that you utilize a sandal type with an ankle strap and heel strap. These types of sandals are extremely popular currently and are easily found in stores selling shoes. Many parents utilize these type of sandals with braces and have done so with no problems whatsoever. The best advice is to go ahead and do some shoe shopping and see what works with the braces your child wears.

Finally, if you are heading to the beach or the swimming pool, decrease your “things to worry about”, keep the braces in the after swimming bag and give your child time to enjoy out of the braces. Enjoying these places are a part of summer, relax and let them wiggle their toes a little and be kids. This should result in a much more pleasant summer time for both your child and you.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Valley Prosthetics and Orthotics Inc. at 610-770-1515, or visit them at www.valleypo.com .

www.lehighvalleyfamily.com